Types of Computers

Computers can be classified according to several sets of criteria.

• Hardware Classifications
  • Microcomputers - are the most common types of computers today. The term originally came from the fact that these were the first computers to have their processor on a single chip. They come in a variety of configurations including:
    • Personal Computer - a computer intended to be used by one individual (at a time) without the aid of a computer operator. (Wikipedla link)
    • Desktop - a personal computer that is designed to be used at a single location. (Wikipedia link)
    • Laptop or notebook - a personal computer designed to be carried. They contain a battery, a traditional keyboard and screen. (Wikipedia link)
    • Tablet computer -- a notebook computer whose screen swivels so that the case can be closed with the screen on the outside. The screen is a touch screen and can be written on with a stylus similar to a PDA rather than by a keyboard and mouse, although tablet PCs have keyboards and pointing devices and can be used as a notebook computer. (Wikipedia link)
    • Sub-notebook - a small, light computer with most of the features of a standard notebook computer. Screen sizes typically run 7" or smaller. Systems typically weigh 2 pounds or less. They normally run a "standard" PC operating system. (Wikipedia link)
    • Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) - a specialized computer that normally fits in one hand, has a touch screen for entering data (typically 3.5" or so) and runs a special operating system. It typically contains several built in applications -- appointment calendar, address book, photo viewer, calculator, etc. (Wikipedia link). Many contain media players, WiFi with typical Internet capabilities.
  • Minicomputers - are smaller than mainframes, typically fitting in an enclosure the size of a file cabinet or desk. They are almost always multi-user systems and are usually run by computer operators. (Wikipedia link)
  • Mainframe Computers - are typically large systems that fill a room. They are designed to process large amounts of data and normally are intended to be used by multiple users. They usually require specially trained individuals to run them, called computer operators. (Wikipedia link)
  • Supercomputers - are typically computers designed to perform very complex numerical calculations at high speed. Typically they are used for the solution of scientific (and military) problems. (Wikipedia link)
• Functional Classifications
  • Server - a computer whose primary task of storing and retrieving large quantities of data often of a specific type. It's easy to guess the primary function of a database server, a Web server, or a mail server. General file servers can be used for a variety of data. General file servers are used to supply data and applications in the computer labs on campus.
  • Workstation - this term is sometimes used to designate personal computers but normally refers to computers running a variant of UNIX designed to be used by only one person. They typically contain high performance CPUs, large amounts of memory, and extremely high quality and high speed video components. They are typically used in medical research, digital imaging, and engineering.
  • Embedded computer systems - these are general CPUs that run single programs and are embedded in typical consumer and industrial devices. Typical consumer devices with embedded computer systems include automobiles, microwave ovens, electric toothbrushes, DVD players. This classification accounts for more than 90% of the CPUs in use today.
  • Portable Data Entry Terminals - handheld devices used to record data